Unserialized-Gun Confiscation Bill Heads to Maryland Governor’s Desk

A bill attempting to crack down on so-called ghost guns is moving forward in Maryland.

The Maryland House passed the Senate version of SB 387 on Tuesday and is now headed to the desk of Governor Larry Hogan (R.). The bill would prohibit the sale, transfer, or possession of any completed firearm or unfinished receiver without a permanent serial number that was manufactured after October 22, 1968. Those who currently own unserialized firearms made after 1986 could face up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 for each one they don’t surrender to authorities.

“This bill closes a loophole that makes it difficult for law enforcement to do its job and creates a terrible public safety threat,” Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh, a major proponent of the bill, said in a statement. “This legislation will save lives.”

Governor Hogan’s office did not respond to a request for comment on the bill, but a spokesperson for his office previously told the Associated Press that he will consider the legislation once it reaches his desk.